What Are the Best Cheap Places to Eat in Boston for Kids & Families?

With great choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Flour is a local favorite. Photo courtesy of Flour Bakery + Cafe

Flour Bakery – Boston Common

With locations near Boston Common and around the city, local fave Flour Bakery + Cafe has a variety of breakfast, lunch, and even dinner options for around $10. The grilled cheese ($6.50) is always a hit. Keep an eye out for "Pizza in the Park" nights on Fridays and Saturdays; the Sicilian-style pizza is scrumptious (and just the right price).

Felipe's – Cambridge

This Harvard Square taqueria has long been a favorite of college kids and families alike. Many tacos, quesadillas, and shareables (nachos!) are priced around or under $10. The Super Burrito is big enough to share.

Kelly's Roast Beef – Revere

With Roast Beef sandwiches, burgers, and other faves, Kelly's is a North Shore landmark. The large sandwiches are definitely sharable, and the family slider meal deal (six sandwiches, side, and cookies) is perfect for a picnic on Revere Beach

B. Good – Multiple Locations

This local chain combines the convenience of fast-food with the quality of a farm-to-table scratch kitchen. The $9 chicken sandwiches are as filling as they are delicious.

Regina Pizzeria – North End, Faneuil Hall & more

Regina has been dishing up pizza in Boston since 1926. Whether you dine in and share a pizza, or grab some slices for stomping around the Freedom Trail, you can get your fill for under $10 per person. The Giambotta (the "everything" pizza) is about 5 bucks a slice at the counter locations, like Quincy Market.

Anna's Taqueria  – Prudential, West End & Suburbs

This Mexican chain has over a dozen locations throughout the Boston area. Tacos start at just 4 bucks. The Super Burrito is massive and checks in at just under $10. Heat seekers should try the chile verde, which is slow-cooked and perfectly spicy.

Clover – Boston, Cambridge & Suburbs

The folks at Clover love local produce, which is reflected in the ever-changeing menu. The 11 Greater Boston locations serve up several soups for under $10, and a $9 dollar breakfast sandwich. The food at Clover is extra satisfying because you're supporting local farmers!

99 Restaurants  – Multiple Locations

Always a real deal, the 99 is a local fave for good reason. If you're getting takeout, the bucket of seafood chowder serves 5. The $15 meal deals might stretch the $10 per-person budget, but a couple of "Kids Eat Free" meals after a Red Sox win will get the tab back in the black.

The 99 is always fine...and very budget-friendly for Boston families. Photo courtesy of 99restaurants.com

Which Cheap Local Spots Are Hidden Gems (and Worth the Trip)?

Flavor Boom – Downtown, Jamaica Plain, Cambridge & Watertown

This new fast-casual chain has everything you're looking for in a destination restaurant: huge portions, quick service, amazing flavors, and low prices. The menu features Mediterranean and Asian dishes, all of which are available in family-size portions for under $30. The Burgundy braised beef is a scrumtious spin on beef stew.

Are There Any Cheap Kid-Friendly Restaurants Near Major Attractions?

Boston Children's Museum – Wheelhouse Boston

Just a stone's throw from Fort Point Channel, Wheelhouse Boston has an $8 chorizo breakfast sandwich that will get any parent ready for a day at the Children's Museum. Or 

New England Aquarium – Bean and Leaf Cafe

This breakfast & lunch takeout spot on the fringe of Faneuil Hall has several sandwiches and wraps under $10. Share an $8 pint of chili after a morning with the fishes.

What Should Families Order to Stay Under $10?

• Share entrees or sides
• Try lunch specials instead of dinner
• Look for kid combos or local-only deals
• Avoid add-ons (like drinks) that double the cost

Which Popular Restaurants Aren’t Worth It (and Why)?

The Friendly Toast is adorable, and it has a fun menu. But the diner vibe doesn't include budget-friendly prices for Boston families looking for cheap eats.

Insider Tips for Eating Out Cheap with Kids

• Bring refillable water bottles
• Go early to beat dinner rushes
• Take advantage of kids-eat-free nights
• Eat at food markets for variety
• Follow local restaurants on social for flash deals
   

Cheap Eats in Boston FAQ

Q1: What are the best cheap restaurants in Boston for families?
A1: Local favorites like Flour Bakery, Regina Pizzeria , and B. Good serve great food for under $10 per person — all kid-approved.

Q2: Where can kids eat free or cheap in Boston?
A2: Many spots offer low-cost kids’ meals or specials, like the 99's "Kids Eat Free" after a Red Sox win; check each restaurant’s website or local deals calendar.

Q3: What kind of food can families get for under $10 in Boston?
A3: Pizza, tacos, and breakfast sandwiches are just a few of the cheap eats in Boston

Q4: Are there good cheap restaurants near the New England Aquarium?
A4: Yes! Try Quincy Market near the New England Aquarium, where you can grab a slice for under $10 before or after your visit.

Q5: How can families save money eating out in Boston?
A5: Definitely skip the touristy, sit-down restaurants that mark up prices.